Six kilometers is the average distance that women and children in the developing world have to walk for water – water that is often dirty and dangerous.
This year, enthusiastic employees from Magna Exteriors’ Norplas plant in Ohio will be among the thousands of people worldwide walking or running six kilometers in the Global 6K challenge to bring clean water to communities in need.
The Magna challenge began with one employee, Ryan Dwornik, an athlete who has long dreamt of becoming an Ironman and who wanted his athletic feats to benefit others.
In late 2016, Dwornik proposed an idea to Magna Exteriors President Grahame Burrow: that they work together as a company to raise $100,000 for clean water in the developing world.
Burrow became so personally invested in the fundraising initiative that he created a video message inviting all Magna employees to take part.
“Our company encourages people to give back to their communities, whether it’s in their backyard or halfway across the world.” – Allison Smith, Magna Exteriors Wellness Specialist
“Having our president show his passion for the Global 6K for Water inspired our locations and employees from around the world to rally to be part of something together,” says Allison Smith, Wellness Specialist for Magna Exteriors. “Our Company encourages people to give back to their communities, whether it’s in their backyard or halfway across the world.”
Last year’s event was a first for Magna employees, and organizers were pleasantly surprised at how successful it was.
“Our goal was crushed by having more than 2,000 employees and their families participate across 13 countries, raising more than $250,000,” Smith says.
This year, employees at other Magna divisions will also be encouraged to participate, with a goal to raise $300,000.